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Weed of the Week: Easter cassia

March 27, 2013

Name: Easter cassia

Scientific name:Senna pendula

How to identify the weed: A woody, multi-branched shrub growing 2-4m in height. Compound leaves borne alternately along stems, with 3-6 soft, oval leaflets on each leaf. Bright yellow five-petalled flowers are borne in leafy clusters at the tips of the branches. Cylindrical, pendulous seed pods form shortly after, approximately 10-20cm in length. They contain 5-40 black seeds.

Why is the weed a problem: Easter Cassia produces dense thickets in the understorey, rapidly outcompeting native vegetation and inhibiting access. It is listed as a priority environmental weed in two NRM regions and is actively managed in Queensland. It is a significant weed, spreading quickly by seed that is moved by water, dumped garden waste and contaminated soil.

How to manage the weed:Chemical treatment is the most effective method to eradicate this weed. After treatment, dispose of all seed and be prepared to treat regrowth for up to 18 months. For more information, please contact IndigiScapes on 3824 8611.

Any other interesting facts: Easter Cassia produces masses of yellow flowers around Easter time, which is how it came about it’s name!